Achilles Tendon Surgery -- Good Outcome But Now Showing Up In Other Leg

I had surgery in January, 2010 for the following issues discovered on MRI: 1) partial tear of the anterior talofibulra ligament; 2) small longitudinal tear of the peroneal longus tendon; 3) tear in posterior tibial tendon; 4) tendinosis of achilles tendon with scar tissue causing a nodule.

Came out of surgery with 5 incisions (including the two used for the scope). Non-weight bearing for five weeks; in a boot for 3 weeks, unable to drive for 6 weeks (right foot); and physical therapy for 7 weeks.

Although I went into the surgery thinking it would be a quick fix, I soon learned that this surgery would require quite a long recovery.

At this point I am 4 months post surgery and I am pretty pleased with the outcome. I am still limping slightly due to the achilles tendon still being tender. The doctor is pleased with the outcome.

My "uh oh" moment is that my left ankle is showing the exact same signs that caused the problem in the right. Swelling and a knot on the achilles tendon.

Sounds like I'm going to be going through this again in the not too distant future.

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Joshua Answers:

Hi there.

I'm glad you're happy with the results. It sure beats the alternative.

I am curious though, what -specifically- about it has you be happy with it?

I'm also curious, how big were the tears? Tiny, medium, sizeable?

Did the doctors use staples or some such to fix the tears, or just roto rooter it all out?

Comments for Achilles Tendon Surgery -- Good Outcome But Now Showing Up In Other Leg

PART 2 - My reply - Achilles Tendon Surgery -- Good Outcome But Now Showing Up In Other Leg by: Anonymous

I'm happy with it because I feel improvement in it every week.

It is taking longer than I expected, but I'm hopeful that I will be able to get back to my walking regimen soon. Also, the whole ankle feels so much tighter and caluses that I had on the bottom of my foot are gone.

The tears were medium in size. The doctor doubled the tendons over and stitched them, then used Topaz to promote healing in all cases. He also debulked the tendons where they had developed scar tissue, and in the case of the Achilles, removed 50%.

As far as the other ankle, the doctor does not even want to discuss treatment on that one until the first ankle heals. Does that sound logical?

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Joshua Comments:

Yes, that sounds logical.

I would be curious what appropriate self care would do for you, as far as avoiding the other leg getting worse and getting surgery.

Thanks for the details. I enjoy them, and other people can learn from it when people share as much detail as possible.